Okenne: Senator Natasha provides free internet service for constituents

Residents of Okene are set to benefit from a new free public internet initiative launched by the senator representing Kogi Central, Natasha Akpoti-Uduaghan.

Natasha, in a Facebook post on Tuesday, announced that a free 24-hour Public Internet Hub has gone live at Okene Club, providing high-speed internet connectivity to users within a one-kilometre radius.

“Congratulations, Okene! Your FREE 24/7 Public Internet Hub is now live at Okene Club, delivering high-speed internet access to everyone within a 1-kilometre radius,” the senator stated in a post shared on her verified Facebook page on Tuesday.

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The development comes amid growing conversations around digital infrastructure as a catalyst for economic growth, especially in underserved communities where access to affordable internet remains limited.

According to Akpoti-Uduaghan, the initiative was inspired by a suggestion from one of the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP’s) new defectors, identified as Idris HK, who proposed the deployment of free internet services in parts of Kogi East to support content creators and young entrepreneurs.

She said, “I stood there loving the idea as a necessity to facilitating job creation for our youths. Whilst he spoke, he mentioned installing free Wi-Fi in strategic locations across the Eastern District to support content creators’ internet access.

“So, in the spirit of collaboration and ‘Kogi Central no dey take last’, here’s me pledging to do the same for our beloved Kogi Central.”

The senator explained that the initiative would be replicated across communities in Kogi Central, stressing the importance of digital access in driving innovation, entrepreneurship and employment opportunities among youths.

“Internet providers shall be contacted, proper locations identified, and installations done soon,” she assured.

Akpoti-Uduaghan also called for stronger collaboration among the three senatorial districts of Kogi State — Central, East and West — urging political leaders to prioritise collective development over unhealthy rivalry.

“Here’s to forward-thinking leadership. Cheers to smart collaboration, not unhealthy competition amongst the Central, Eastern, and Western districts of Kogi State. Cheers to our great party, the PDP,” she added.

The intervention is expected to boost opportunities for youths involved in digital entrepreneurship, social media engagement and content creation by providing reliable and cost-free internet access across the district.